Sun-Sentinal [imgl]http://a1022.g.akamai.net/f/1022/8165/5m/images.sun-sentinel.com/media/thumbnails/photo/2005-10/19805652.jpg[/imgl]Miami ? Gary Payton and Antoine Walker come to the Heat with the big names, All-Star credentials and questions about their roles, while Jason Williams arrives with his freewheeling reputation. And then there is forward James Posey, who might end up being more important to the Heat's chances than any of the newcomers. Because while Williams is the starting point guard and Payton and Walker are veteran options at guard and forward, Posey is the only one working without a net. Once the Heat lost out on free agent Michael Finley, Posey entered training camp as the only experienced, natural small forward on the roster. Now he is expected to start and help replace the 3-point shooting and perimeter defense the Heat lost when it traded Eddie Jones. If Posey isn't a good fit then Walker is the only veteran behind him. Heat coach Stan Van Gundy said playing Walker extensively at small forward could be tough because of matchup problems. Posey said he hasn't given much thought to his circumstances but doesn't shy away from the pressure. "I accept that challenge," he said. A starter for all of his six NBA seasons, Posey never has been a major part of a team with championship aspirations. He is also coming off a disappointing season in which he struggled with injuries and, he says, the style of coach Mike Fratello. The Heat hopes a healthy and happy Posey will play at the same level as the 2003-04 season, his best as a pro. Source
I really like Posey, I think he's capable of being the starting Small Forward for the Heat but I dont think he'll produce unless he gets enough playing time. If 'Toine takes up most of the playing time even though he's coming off of the bench I dont think that James will be able to do what he did in Memphis for a few seasons here in Miami.
Toine will be playing at both PF and SF, so total PER game, their's 96 minutes at PF and SF. If you split that into 3 that's Haslem, Posey and Walker all playing 32 MPG. They won't get all the minutes at SF/PF, but each will play at least 28-30 MPG.
He doesn't need to be a leader for the team, and I don't expect him to be one, but he will help with his defense, and if he replicates 03-04, his outside shooting.
